Image: Pexels.com
Historic preservation is all about connecting people to places and building communities. The preservation of historical artifacts is an interdisciplinary path that is related to:
- Archaeology
- Architectural history
- Archival preservation
- Art conservation
- Cultural resource management
- Historic building reconstruction
- Museum curation
- Photograph restoration
These fields contribute to the overall mission of historic preservation by ensuring that the built environment reflects and honors the cultural heritage of a community.
Preserving the Past with Science
Ever stop to consider the preservation of historical artifacts and the blend of science and technology that surrounds them? While it’s not a pure STEM field, historic preservation is a hybrid discipline that relies heavily on STEM tools and methods to protect cultural heritage.
Sandro Kenkadze is a Preservation Architect with a Master of Science in Historic Preservation (MSHP). He wrote an article in The Heritage Report titled “Preserving the Past with Science: Why Historic Preservation Deserves STEM Recognition” (May 6, 2025).
In his article, he states: “Historic preservation is a discipline that involves technical expertise, scientific analysis, and advanced technological applications. Although it is closely linked with architecture and engineering, it is often overlooked in the context of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).”
Kenkadze goes on to explain that historic preservation includes significant elements of science (material science), technology (GIS mapping), engineering (structural analysis), and mathematics (environmental impact assessments). However, very few Master of Science in Historic Preservation (MSHP) programs have received a STEM designation, with some exceptions, such as the program at Clemson University.
How Artifact Preservation Connects to STEM
- Science: Conservation science uses chemistry, physics, and biology to analyze materials, understand deterioration, and develop preservation techniques.
- Technology: Tools like infrared spectrometers, 3D scanning, and digital archiving are used to study and preserve artifacts.
- Engineering: Structural engineering helps stabilize and restore buildings, monuments, and fragile objects.
- Mathematics: Data modeling and statistical analysis support research in degradation patterns and environmental impact.
The Convergence of Science, History, and Faith
Notre Dame – One of the most compelling examples of how digital tools intersect with preservation is the restoration of the iconic Notre Dame de Paris, the most famous Gothic cathedral of the Middle Ages. After the devastating fire in 2019, advanced digital documentation methods such as 3D laser scanning and photogrammetry – both of which are firmly rooted in STEM fields – played a crucial role in precisely reconstructing the cathedral.
Shroud of Turin – Also consider the Shroud of Turin, which unlike other burial shrouds, bears the image of a crucified man, aligning with accounts in the Gospels and historical texts. The shroud is preserved in a state-of-the-art reliquary constructed by the same company that builds facilities for the International Space Station. Facing the threats of light and oxygen, chemists meticulously maintain its environment, using argon gas to protect the 2,000-year-old artifact.
Combining Science, History, and Humanities
Like the subject of history, archaeology is traditionally categorized under social sciences and humanities. Architecture is also closely connected to the arts and humanities, as the aesthetic design of buildings is often influenced by social and cultural values. Similarly, historic preservation is usually thought of as a humanities-based field, focusing on history, culture, and aesthetics.
Nevertheless, architecture is both an art and a science, as it combines creative design with technical skill. Likewise, archeology applies scientific techniques, cultural insights, and artistic elements to reconstruct past societies. Moreover, Kenkadze argues that in a world increasingly driven by science and technology, one cannot be an effective preservation architect with only humanitarian skills.
If you are interested in both history and science, historic preservation may be the ideal field of study for you!
